Tank Valve Block Layout for Compact Multi-Valve Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank valve devices are large in size due to intricate flow path configurations with multiple valves attached to a valve block.
Innovation Solution
The tank valve device and valve block are designed with the inlet/outlet and electromagnetic valve positioned outside the tank in one lateral direction, and the manual and safety valves positioned in two other lateral directions, gathering the flow path in the center to simplify the configuration and reduce size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are attached to a valve block with intricate flow paths, then the valve device can perform multiple functions (electromagnetic control, manual operation, safety release), but the valve block becomes large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional arrangement by positioning different valves in different lateral directions (first, second, and third lateral directions) extending from the tank. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions allows the flow paths to converge at the tank port without requiring a large valve block, thus achieving multi-functionality while minimizing size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning where the inlet/outlet and electromagnetic valve are disposed in a first lateral direction, while the manual valve and safety valve are positioned in second and third lateral directions respectively. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes the flow path convergence at the tank port and reduces the overall valve block size compared to symmetric configurations.
2Volume of stationary object
If various valves and flow paths are integrated in a compact arrangement, then the valve block size is reduced, but the flow path configuration becomes more complex to design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the valve system by attaching different valves (electromagnetic valve, manual valve, safety valve) at different lateral positions relative to the tank. This segmentation allows each valve to have its own designated space while their flow paths converge at the tank port, simplifying the overall design compared to integrating all valves in a single compact block.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design results in a compact tank valve device and valve block, reducing their overall size while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic valve configured to open and close the flow path
Implementation Method 2
a safety valve that releases the fluid when a temperature outside the tank exceeds a predetermined temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
This tank valve device includes: a valve block to be attached to a port of a tank and including an inlet/outlet for a fluid and a flow path connecting the inlet/outlet and the inside of the tank; an electromagnetic valve configured to open and close the flow path; a manual valve that stops flow in the flow path; and a safety valve that releases the fluid when a temperature outside the tank exceeds a predetermined temperature. The inlet/outlet and the electromagnetic valve are disposed outside the tank and positioned in the valve block in a first lateral direction that is one of the four directions from the valve block,. The manual valve and the safety valve are disposed outside the tank and positioned in the valve block in a second lateral direction and a third lateral direction, respectively, that are two of the remaining three directions.